This highly urbanized city has hired 975 students as beneficiaries of this year’s Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) starting May 15.

Through the Public Employment Services Office (PESO), the city government is implementing the program in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

In a statement on Wednesday, Mayor Greg Gasataya said the SPES enables students to earn income during summer vacation and helps them develop discipline, responsibility, and a deeper appreciation for public service.

“This program is more than just providing financial assistance. It is about shaping our young people to become responsible, hardworking, and service-oriented individuals,” he added.

The initial batch of student hires attended an orientation with the PESO on April 25.

They will be assigned to various offices and agencies of the city government for 20 days from May 15 until the second week of June.

Each beneficiary will receive an allowance of PHP12,000 jointly provided by PESO and DOLE.

Under the program, public sector employers hire students and out-of-school youths as temporary employees and pay 60 percent of their salaries while the DOLE covers the remaining 40 percent.

Last year, the city government hired 814 students for the SPES and paid a total of PHP6.7 million for their wages. (PNA)